The blast took out both rear tires and sent the car, which had burst into flames, careening into the left-side guard wall. The blazing car then continued to slide along the track before hitting the right-side guard wall and sliding into the safety sand trap, where the car finally came to a halt.

Fortunately for Brown, who drives for Don Schumacher Racing, he was using a new canopy that is designed specifically for safety.

The canopy is built for safety, not aerodynamics, but it has created a bit of controversy. The system adds weight to a car (about 30 pounds), adds cost (about $12,000), and requires a significant overhaul of the cockpit of a car, which typically costs about $250,000 to build. The cars with canopies need new seats, additional padding, and a new fire extinguishing system.

Looking at the crash, I am sure Brown doesn't think there is any controversy in using the canopy.